Olthuis Kleer Townshend LLP

Olthuis, Kleer, Townshend LLP is a mid-sized firm recognized as a leader in representing Indigenous governments, organizations, and individuals. OKT works for the self-determination of Indigenous peoples by advancing precedent-setting litigation, negotiation with government and industry on behalf of Nations, and advancing the economic interests of Nations.

OKT has over 40 lawyers with offices in Yellowknife and Toronto and clients from coast to coast to coast. The lawyers’ experience in working with Indigenous peoples dates back to the early 1970s.

OKT makes it a priority to hire Indigenous people at all levels in the firm and is committed to training Indigenous lawyers. OKT is committed to developing Indigenous leadership in the law, and the firm works actively to support the development of Indigenous lawyers serving Indigenous communities.

Our experience includes:

• Litigation involving Aboriginal rights, Aboriginal title, and treaties.
• Impact benefit agreement negotiations with developers.
• Land and resource rights negotiations.
• Advice on child protection litigation and governance.
• Advice and negotiations regarding Aboriginal governance and self-determination.
• Law on the duty to consult and accommodate Indigenous Nations.
• Advice on environmental and regulatory matters, co-management agreements, and the creation of Indigenous protected areas.
• Creation and administration of Indian reserves and trusts.
• Injunction applications to stop developments on Aboriginal land.
• Setting up corporate structures and implementing business objectives both on and off reserve.
• Secured transactions related to equity ownership of resource, energy, transmission projects.

Chief Executive Officer: Cathy Guirguis